Biomonitoring of air quality in the Bodoquena microregion, Mato Grosso Do Sul: mutagenic and morphoanatomical alterations in Tradescantia pallida (rose) D.R. Hunt var. purpurea

Abstract The objective of this study was to assess air quality in relation to vehicular traffic flow in cities located at different elevations in the Bodoquena microregion, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. To do so, a micronucleus test was carried out using the TRAD-MCN bioassay on young Tradescantia buds collected from February to November 2018 in seven cities of the microregion with different traffic flow intensities. Meteorological parameters were evaluated, and vehicular traffic was counted to determine traffic flow in each city. With data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) and processing in Esri ArcGIS® software version 10.5.1, the regions was mapped based on an Elevation Model. Morphoanatomical analyses were performed according to standard methodology. Measurements were taken of thickness, length and width of tissues and structures, including the upper and lower cuticle, upper and lower epidermis, hypodermis and mesophyll. The greatest traffic flow was found in the cities of Bodoquena, Guia Lopes da Laguna, Jardim, and Porto Murtinho, with the period from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. showing the highest traffic flow. The greatest frequency of mutagenic alterations was found in the city of Guia Lopes da Laguna, although the results did not differ significantly from Bonito, Caracol, and Jardim. Throughout the biomonitoring, the summer and autumn seasons showed the greatest micronuclei frequencies in all evaluated cities. Variations in the tissue/structure thickness was observed across cities and seasons, but with a decrease in thickness during autumn. In general, the tissues/structures were smaller for the cities of Nioaque and Porto Murtinho, while the anatomical and morphological characteristics of leaf length and thickness showed no differences among cities. We found limited correlation between micronuclei frequency and traffic flow, supporting the hypothesis that although mutagenic alterations are observed in T. pallida, in this microregion the changes are numerically lower when compared to other regions of the state. In light of the genotoxic and morphoanatomical factors assessed herein, the Bodoquena microregion appears to be well preserved in terms of air quality, presenting low micronuclei frequency and a limited reduction in tissues and leaf structures, regardless of the season.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade do ar com base no fluxo veicular das cidades localizadas em diferentes altitudes na microrregião da Bodoquena, no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Para tal, foi realizado o teste de micronúcleo, por meio do bioensaio TRAD-MCN em botões jovens de Tradescantia coletadas no período entre fevereiro a novembro de 2018 em sete cidades da microrregião da Bodoquena, com diferentes intensidades de fluxo veicular. Foram avaliados os parâmetros meteorológicos, os veículos foram contados para determinar o tráfego de veículos em cada cidade e altitude. A partir da topografia Shuttle Radar (SRTM) e processamento no software Esri ArcGIS® versão 10.5.1 foi possível mapear a área com base no Modelo de Elevação. As análises morfoanatômicos foram realizadas conforme metodologia padrão. As mensurações de espessura, comprimento, largura dos tecidos e estruturas como a cutícula superior, cutícula inferior, face superior e face inferior da epiderme, hipoderme e mesófilo foram avaliadas. O maior fluxo veicular foi encontrado nas cidades de Bodoquena, Guia Lopes da Laguna, Jardim e Porto Murtinho. O horário das 17:00 às 18:00h foi o que apresentou maiores fluxo de veículos. A maior frequência de alterações mutagênicas foi encontrada na cidade de Guia Lopes, não diferindo de Bonito, Caracol e Jardim. Ao longo do biomonitoramento observou-se que as estações de verão e outono foram as que apresentaram maiores frequências de micronúcleo independente da cidade avaliada. Observou-se que a correlação entre a frequência de micronúcleos e o fluxo veicular foi baixa, apoiando a tese de que essa microrregião, embora apresente alterações mutagênicas em T. pallida, as alterações numericamente são pequenas quando comparadas a outras regiões do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Observou-se uma variação na espessura dos tecidos/estruturas que é variável entre as diferentes cidades e estações do ano. De forma geral os tecidos/estrutura apresentaram redução na espessura para as cidades de Nioaque e Porto Murtinho quanto aos aspectos anatômicos e morfológicos, sendo que, para o comprimento e espessura foliar não foi observado diferenças entre as cidades. Em relação as estações do ano, observou-se que no outono a espessura dos tecidos/estruturas são menores. Diante dos fatores genotóxicos e morfoanatômicos aqui avaliados, a microrregião da Bodoquena parece estar bem preservada em termos de qualidade do ar, apresentando baixa frequência de micronúcleos e redução limitada de tecidos e estruturas foliares, independentemente da estação do ano.

Mariposas frugívoras (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) en plantaciones de eucalipto y bosques de galería en la Orinoquia colombiana / Fruit-feeding butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in eucalyptus plantations and gallery forests in the Colombian Orinoquia

Introducción: Una actividad económica que ha tenido auge en la última década en la altillanura es la forestación de sabanas con alteraciones antrópicas, pero se desconoce su papel en la conservación de las mariposas frugívoras de los bosques de galería dentro de los núcleos forestales. Objetivo: Comparar la diversidad de mariposas frugívoras en plantaciones de eucalipto y bosques de galería, y el papel de las variables ambientales. Métodos: Utilizamos trampas Van Someren-Rydon, dos réplicas de cuatro trampas, en cada uno de los cuatro hábitats muestreados simultáneamente desde diciembre 2020 hasta julio 2021: plantación de eucaliptos de cuatro años; plantación de eucaliptos de seis años; bosque de galería de suelo seco y bosque de galería anegado. También registramos diez variables abióticas, estructurales, alimentarias y de hábitat. Resultados: Recolectamos 227 especímenes de mariposas frugívoras (30 especies, 23 géneros y 5 subfamilias de la familia Nymphalidae). Había más especies en los bosques. Las especies de mariposas variaron más del 50 % entre los hábitats; Satyrinae fue más diversa en las plantaciones. Conclusión: La forestación en esta área proporciona hábitats para algunas especies de mariposas frugívoras de los remanentes de bosques naturales adyacentes. Las forestaciones representan un escenario de alteración intermedia entre las dos unidades de paisaje dominantes en la región.

Introduction: An economic activity that has boomed in the last decade in Colombian highlands is the afforestation of anthropized savannas, but its role in the conservation of fruit-feeding butterflies of gallery forests within forest cores is unknown. Objective: To compare the diversity of fruit-feeding butterflies in eucalyptus plantations and gallery forests, and the role of environmental variables. Methods: We used Van Someren-Rydon traps, two replicates of four traps, on each of four habitats sampled simultaneously from December 2020 to July 2021: four-years-old eucalyptus plantation; six-years-old eucalyptus plantation; dry soil gallery forest and waterlogged gallery forest. We also recorded ten abiotic, structural, food and habitat variables. Results: We collected 227 specimens of fruit-feeding butterflies (30 species, 23 genera, and 5 subfamilies within the family Nymphalidae). There were more species in the forests. The butterfly species varied over 50 % between the habitats; Satyrinae were more diverse in plantations. Conclusion: Afforestation in this area provides habitats for some species of fruit-feeding butterflies from adjacent natural forest remnants. Afforestations represent an intermediate disturbance scenario between the two dominant landscape units in the region.

DNA methylation in bryophytes as a biomarker for monitoring environmental pollution

Rapidly growing industrialization and increased need for transportation have led to environmental pollution, particularly heavy metals. Efficient monitoring would help planning effective strategies to curb such increasing pollution. In this context, we studied the epigenetic changes in the bryophyte Greater Fork-moss, Dicranum majus Turner so as to use to monitor the environmental stress conditions due to accumulation of heavy metals and toxic organic compounds. The hypothesis is that the DNAm (DNA methylation) signatures reflect changes in the environmental conditions, and thus could serve as an alternate monitoring tool to study environmental pollution. The vegetative form of D. majus was collected from two different geographical locations where one was near the main road (MR) and another in the forest area (FS). DNAm rate was found 10.41±2.009 and 23.37±2.94 in MR and FS, respectively (P <0.005). The only difference between the two samples were traffic related pollutants. Thus, the reuslts suggest that vehicle pollution induces epigenetic changes in bryophytes, particularly DNA methylation, and could serve as a valuable biomarker to assess pollution risk due to vehicle traffic.

Effects of sheep manure in agricultural soils on the behavior of Folsomia candida and initial growth and development of Avena sativa / Efeitos do esterco de ovelha em solos agrícolas no comportamento de Folsomia candida e no crescimento e desenvolvimento inicial de Avena sativa

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sheep manure in agricultural soils on the behavior of Folsomia candida and initial growth and development of Avena sativa. For this, an Oxisol was submitted to different doses of sheep manure and was subsequently evaluated for Folsomia candida survival and avoidance behavior through standardized ecotoxicological assays, the initial performance of oats by germination test and the soil basal respiration rate by respirometry methodology. There was an increase in the basal respiration rate of the soil by the application of sheep manure and this was consistent with the increase of the doses. The survival rate and avoidance behavior of springtails were not altered and there was no change in the initial performance of oats, indicating that this manure can be used for organic fertilization of soils with low soil pollutant potential.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos do esterco de ovelha em solos agrícolas no comportamento de Folsomia candida e no crescimento e desenvolvimento inicial de Avena sativa. Para isso, um Latossolo foi submetido a diferentes doses de esterco de ovelha e posteriormente avaliado quanto ao comportamento de fuga e a sobrevivência de Folsomia candida por meio de ensaios ecotoxicológicos padronizados, desempenho inicial da aveia pelo teste de germinação e taxa respiratória basal do solo pela metodologia da respirometria. Houve um aumento na taxa de respiração basal do solo pela aplicação de esterco de ovelha e isso foi consistente com o aumento das doses. A taxa de sobrevivência e o comportamento de fuga dos colêmbolos não foram alterados e não houve alteração no desempenho inicial da aveia, indicando que esse esterco pode ser usado para fertilização orgânica de solos com baixo potencial poluente no solo.

Citotoxicidade, genotoxicidade e mutagenicidade da infusão de Plectranthus barbatus ­ Lamiaceae (malva-santa) avaliados pelo sistema teste Allium cepa / Cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity of the infusion of Plectranthus barbatus ­ Lamiaceae (holy-mallow) evaluated by the Allium cepa test system

Introdução: plectranthus barbatus é uma espécie muito usada popularmente para finalidades do tratamento do trato digestivo. Objetivos: objetivou-se avaliar a simulação do uso de forma inadequada do infuso (chá) da espécie a partir dos seus efeitos citotóxicos, genotóxicos e mutagênicos. Metodologia: o modelo experimental escolhido foi o sistema Allium cepa por se tratar de método eficiente, sensível, rápido e de baixo custo. As concentrações testadas foram 6g (T1), 9g (T2), 12g (T3) e 15g (T4) das folhas frescas da planta em 250mL de água fervente. Como controle negativo usou-se água mineral e como positivo utilizou-se paracetamol (80mg/L). Resultados: os resultados apontam toxicidade dos extratos pela redução do crescimento radicular de A. cepa. Em relação aos efeitos citotóxicos observou-se um menor índice mitótico no tratamento T4 assim como uma redução de células em ciclo celular, equivalente ao controle positivo. Para os efeitos mutagênicos, foram encontradas células com aberrações diversas com o aumento da concentração do chá. Conclusões: os achados reforçam a afirmação de que as plantas medicinais não estão livres de efeitos indesejáveis. Por isso devem ser consumidas com cautela.

Introduction: plectranthus barbatus is a species popularly used for digestive tract treatment purposes. Objectives: the objective of this study was to evaluate the simulation of the inappropriate use of the infusion (tea) of the species from its cytotoxic, genotoxic and mutagenic effects. Methodology: the experimental model chosen was the Allium cepa system because it was efficient, sensitive, fast and inexpensive. The concentrations tested were 6g (T1), 9g (T2), 12g (T3) and 15g (T4) of aerial parts of the plant in 250mL of boiling water. As a negative control, mineral water was used and paracetamol (80mg/L) was used as a positive control. Results: the results indicate toxicity of extracts by reduction of root growth of A. cepa. In relation to the cytotoxic effects a lower mitotic index was observed in the T4 treatment as well as a reduction of cells in the cell cycle, equivalent to the positive control. For the mutagenic effects, cells with different aberrations were found with increasing tea concentration. Conclusion: the findings reinforce the claim that medicinal plants are not free of undesirable effects. Therefore they should be consumed with caution.

Influencia de la vigilancia en una zona rocosa dentro de un área marina protegida, Pacífico Central de Costa Rica / Surveillance influence in a rocky shore within a marine protected area, Central Pacific of Costa Rica

Resumen Los intermareales rocosos son sitios importantes para peces, aves, invertebrados y algas entre otros, que se utilizan para la extracción de recursos alimenticios para las comunidades costeras. Se presentan los resultados de la evaluación de una costa rocosa en el Pacífico Central de Costa Rica (Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Playa Hermosa-Punta Mala), usando indicadores biológicos propuestos por el protocolo del Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía. Se analizó la influencia de la vigilancia en dos sitios dentro de un AMP sobre el intermareal rocoso. La recolección de datos se realizó durante la época seca y la época lluviosa de 2015. Los datos mostraron que Nerita scabricosta presentó muchas colonias formadas por pocos individuos. La cobertura de macroalgas y los invertebrados bajo las rocas mostraron una leve diferencia entre los niveles de vigilancia. La densidad de Tetraclita stalactifera no mostró variaciones. Se sugiere la hipótesis que el daño mecánico asociado al turismo, pesca y extracción, está influyendo sobre los organismos de la zona rocosa. Algunos de los bioindicadores utilizados mostraron ser influenciados por los niveles de vigilancia y aplicación de las medidas de manejo.

Abstract Rocky intertidal are important sites for fish, birds, invertebrates and algae, among others, which are used for the extraction of food resources for coastal communities. We present the results of conservation assessment of a rocky shore in the Central Pacific of Costa Rica (Playa Hermosa-Punta Mala National Wildlife Refuge) using the biological indicators proposed by the National Environmental Ministry. This study aims to analyze the influence of surveillance, between two sites, over the rocky shore habitat. The sampling was carried out during both the dry and rainy seasons in 2015. Our data shows that Nerita scabricosta -harvested in small-scale fisheries- presents a high number of colonies formed by few individuals. Moreover, the abundance varied between seasons, probably due to a storm surge. Macroalgae differed slightly among sites, where turf had higher percentage coverage in low surveillance areas, while brown algae had higher coverage in high surveillance areas. Mechanical damage (abrasion due to rocks overturning) associated with tourism and harvesting could be influencing the low surveillance area, explaining these differences. Macroalgae presented a seasonal change, probably related to the storm surge. The density of the Tetraclita stalactifera did not exhibit variations. The surveillance level and enforcement influenced some bioindicators of the rocky shore, and therefore could be used to assess the extractive pressure. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(3): 984-995. Epub 2018 September 01.

DETERMINACIÓN DEL COMPORTAMIENTO ÁCIDO DE LAS PRECIPITACIONES EN INMEDIACIONES DEL RESGUARDO INDÍGENA DE LA SERRANÍA EL MAJUY EN COTA, CUNDINAMARCA Y SU EFECTO EN LÍQUENES DE LA ZONA / DETERMINING THE ACID RAINFALL BEHAVIOR IN THE VICINITY OF THE INDIGENOUS RESERVE IN THE SERRANIA EL MAJUY IN COTA, CUNDINAMARCA AND ITS EFFECT ON LICHENS IN THE AREA

La Serranía El Majuy ubicada en el municipio de Cota, Cundinamarca, es una formación montañosa con una alta relevancia ecológica, la cual debido al incesante crecimiento industrial en la sabana de Bogotá, principalmente en la sabana centro (sector de Siberia) puede sufrir alteraciones de tipo ambiental, paisajístico o sociocultural. El presente artículo explora la posible incidencia de la expansión industrial en el sector de Siberia, sobre las precipitaciones en inmediaciones del resguardo indígena de Cota, esto mediante pruebas fisicoquímicas (pH, nitritos, sulfatos y conductividad) y por medio de bioindicadores como los líquenes presentes en la zona (Cetrelia sp., Flavopunctelia sp., Usnea sp., hypotrachyna sp., Xanthoparmelia sp.,Acarospora socialis sp., Caloplaca chantolyta sp., Caloplaca socialis sp., Candelariella Xanthostigma sp.), con los cuales se calculó el Índice de Diversidad Liquénica (LDV), índice de Shannon e Índice de Pureza Atmosférica (IPA). También se realizó un mapa de dispersión para la incidencia de la emisión atmosférica, con el cual se determinó que la Serranía El Majuy se podría presentar una concentración de contaminantes considerable pero se requiere de más datos para confirmar dicha afectación. La principal conclusión de esta investigación es que en general no se presenta un comportamiento ácido en las precipitaciones en la serranía El Majuy en el período de tiempo evaluado.

Serrania El Majuy, located in the municipality of Cota, Cundinamarca, is a mountainous formation with high ecological significance, which, due to continuous industrial growth in the savannah of Bogotá, mainly in the central savannah (Siberia sector) can undergo environmental, scenic or cultural alterations. This article explores the potential impact of industrial expansion in the Siberia sector on rainfall in the vicinity of the indigenous reserve of Cota, carried out using physic-chemical tests (pH, nitrites, sulfates and conductivity) and through bio-indicators as lichens present in the area (Cetrelia sp., Flavopunctelia sp., Usnea sp., hypotrachyna sp., Xanthoparmelia sp.,Acarospora socialis sp., Caloplaca chantolyta sp., Caloplaca socialis sp., Candelariella Xanthostigma sp.), with which the Lichen Diversity Value (LDV) index, the Shannon index and the Atmospheric Purity Index (API) were calculated. A dispersion map was also made for the incidence of atmospheric emissions, with which it was determined that a significant pollutant concentration could be present in El Majuy mountain range but more data is required to confirm this affectation. The main conclusion of this research is that, in general, there is no acid behavior in rainfall in El Majuy mountain range in the period of time evaluated.

Assemblage of drosophilids (Diptera, Drosophilidae) inhabiting flooded and nonflooded areas in the extreme South of Brazil

ABSTRACT Several studies on the potential use of drosophilid assemblages as bioindicator systems have been carried out in the last years. Nevertheless, the successful application of these organisms in these systems requires adequate filling of several knowledge gaps. In this sense, little is known about drosophilid assemblages in wetlands and flooded areas. The present study provides the first survey of drosophilid species inhabiting such environments in the extreme South of Brazil and compares general beta-diversity patterns between assemblages of flooded versus nonflooded areas. The specimens were collected with banana-baited traps, and the assemblages recovered in eight wetlands of the southernmost coast of Brazil were compared to those recovered from seven nonflooded areas of the Pampa and Atlantic Forest biomes. A total of 5028 and 2571 individuals encompassing 27 and 37 species were collected in the flooded and nonflooded areas, respectively. The differential species composition patterns presented between these areas was statistically supported, which seems to be related to the lower beta-diversity presented by swamps, especially in regard to dominance patterns. So, the open and climatically harsher environment provided by wetlands possibly constitutes a hostile environment for the entry and, mainly, for the persistence of several native Drosophilidae species, in contrast to some exotic and more plastic species (as Drosophila simulans and Zaprionus indianus). Since the diversity gradient of flooded areas does not seem to be related to the conservation status of the swamp, our results question the use of Drosophilidae species as bioindicators of environmental disturbance and antropic influence in wetlands.

Cytogenotoxicity of rice crop water after application of the tricyclazole fungicide

ABSTRACT Tricyclazole is currently one of the fungicides recommended for the treatment of diseases in irrigated rice. However, there is relatively little information on its cytotoxic and genotoxic potential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of rice crop water after apllication of the tricyclazole fungicide through the Allium cepa L. test. The rice crop water samplings were collected before and 1, 15 and 30 days after application of the fungicide in rice plant shoots. The Allium cepa roots were placed in contact with the rice crop water to check for possible chromosomal abnormalities and mitotic index of the bioindicators meristematic cells. The data obtained by the Allium cepa test indicates that the application of the tricyclazole fungicide leads to an increase in the genotoxic activity in the rice crop water, through the appearance of chromosomal abnormalities, without, however, causing significant effects on the mitotic index. The major chromosomal alterations observed were anaphasic and telophasic bridges and laggard chromosomes.

Análise da presença do fitoplâncton em bacia integrante do Projeto de Integração do Rio São Francisco, região semiárida, Nordeste brasileiro / Analysis of phytoplankton presence in an integral basin of the Integration Project of São Francisco River, semiarid region, Northeast Brazil

RESUMO Estudos taxonômicos do fitoplâncton são importantes ferramentas para advertir a qualidade da água, possibilitando o monitoramento das águas utilizadas para fins múltiplos. Assim, este trabalho visou estudar a composição e a distribuição fitoplanctônica em trechos da Bacia do Rio Piranhas-Açu, na região semiárida do Nordeste brasileiro, de 2010 a 2011, com 13 pontos amostrais, em rios e reservatórios. Foram identificados 81 táxons infragenéricos, os quais foram distribuídos em 9 classes: Cyanophyceae , Chlorophyceae , Bacillariophyceae , Trebouxiophyceae , Euglenophyceae , Coscinodiscophyceae , Zygnematophyceae , Mediophyceae e Klebsormidiophyceae . As divisões Chlorophyta e Cyanophyta foram as mais representativas, com 30 (37%) e 24 (30%) táxons, respectivamente. Contudo, elas estiveram dominantes durante o período de estudo. Em alguns pontos de amostragem, as cianobactérias apresentaram densidades com valores limites acima de 20.000 células/mL, e, portanto, necessitaram monitoramento semanal como disposto pela Portaria 2.914, de 12 de dezembro de 2011, do Ministério da Saúde. Dentre as espécies com alto índice de abundância, destacam-se aquelas potencialmente produtoras de toxinas, representadas por Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii , Pseudanabaena limnetica , Microcystis sp., Dolichospermum sp. e Oscillatoria sp. Os dados indicam um potencial risco à saúde da população beneficiada por essas águas.

ABSTRACT Phytoplankton taxonomic studies are important tools to analyze the quality of water, allowing the monitoring of waters used for multiple purposes. Thus, this work aimed at studying the formation and distribution of phytoplankton in stretches of the Piranhas-Açu River Basin, in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil, from 2010 to 2011, with 13 sampling points in river and reservoirs. We identified 81 infrageneric taxa, distributed into 9 classes: Cyanophyceae , Chlorophyceae , Bacillariophyceae , Trebouxiophyceae , Euglenophyceae , Coscinodiscophyceae , Zygnematophyceae , Mediophyceae , and Klebsormidiophyceae . The Chlorophyta and Cyanophyta divisions were the most representative, with 30 (37%) and 24 (30%) taxa, respectively. However, the cyanobacteria were more seen throughout the study period. In some sampling points, they had limits above 20.000 cells/mL, requiring weekly monitoring as provided by Decree 2914 from December 12, 2011, of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The species with high abundance are those producing toxins, represented by Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii , Pseudanabaena limnetic , Microcystis sp. Dolichospermum sp., and Oscillatoria sp. The data indicate a potential health risk to the population served by these waters.

Comparación entre ensambles de Phyllophaga (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae) del Occidente de Cuba / Comparison between Phyllophaga (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae) assemblages in Western Cuba

ResumenEl archipiélago cubano cuenta con 79 especies de Phyllophaga (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae), con un 98.6 % de endemismo, lo cual le confiere al grupo importancia desde el punto de vista de biodiversidad y económica, al ser algunas especies plagas de cultivos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la relación entre la composición y estructura de los ensambles de Phyllophaga y el tipo de hábitat (en cuanto a formación vegetal y grado de alteración humana). Durante la estación de lluvia fueron muestreadas 17 localidades del occidente de Cuba, las que difieren en cuanto al tipo de hábitat y grado de alteración. Las recolectas fueron realizadas con una trampa de luz tipo pantalla (McFarland, 1966). Se recolectaron 1 153 ejemplares de 24 especies de Phyllophaga. La abundancia total de individuos recolectados varió entre 10 y 306 y la riqueza de especies entre dos y nueve especies. Phyllophaga dissimilis (Chevrolat) fue la especie más abundante y la de mayor frecuencia de ocurrencia. De manera general, las localidades menos antropizadas reflejaron comunidades más ricas y equitativas, aunque estas características también la tuvieron dos sitios que tienen grado de alteración intermedia. El escalado multidimensional no métrico, reflejó que las muestras más semejantes entre sí fueron las pertenecientes a lugares muy antropizados, esta semejanza estuvo dada principalmente por la abundancia de Phyllophaga dissimilis, P. insulaepinorum y P. puberula. La distancia geográfica no se relacionó con la similitud de los ensambles.

Abstract:The Cuban archipelago has 79 Phyllophaga species with a 98.6 % of endemism, which makes the group ecologically and economically important, as some species are classified as crop pests. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the composition and structure of the Phyllophaga assemblages with their habitat type, considering both plant structure and level of human habitat disturbance. A total of 17 locations were sampled in Western Cuba during the rainy seasons of the period from 2011 to 2015; these differed in habitat types (forests and agroecosystems). Samplings followed standard methods and were made once with a light trap screen in each locality. A total of 1 153 individuals of 24 Phyllophaga species were collected. The total abundance of collected individuals varied between 10 and 306, and species richness between two and nine species. The most abundant species was Phyllophaga dissimilis (Chevrolat) which also had the highest frequency of occurrence. Generally, less anthropized sites reflected richer and equitative communities; although these characteristics appeared in two sites that showed intermediate degree of disturbance. The non-metric multidimensional scaling showed that the most similar samples were those of the very anthropized sites; this similarity was given mainly by the abundance of Phyllophaga dissimilis, P. insualepinorum and P. puberula. Besides, the geographical distance was not related to the similarity of these assemblages. Rev. Biol. Trop. 65 (1): 351-363. Epub 2017 March 01.

Effects of sheep manure in agricultural soils on the behavior of Folsomia candida and initial growth and development of Avena sativa

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sheep manure in agricultural soils on the behavior of Folsomia candida and initial growth and development of Avena sativa. For this, an Oxisol was submitted to different doses of sheep manure and was subsequently evaluated for Folsomia candida survival and avoidance behavior through standardized ecotoxicological assays, the initial performance of oats by germination test and the soil basal respiration rate by respirometry methodology. There was an increase in the basal respiration rate of the soil by the application of sheep manure and this was consistent with the increase of the doses. The survival rate and avoidance behavior of springtails were not altered and there was no change in the initial performance of oats, indicating that this manure can be used for organic fertilization of soils with low soil pollutant potential.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos do esterco de ovelha em solos agrícolas no comportamento de Folsomia candida e no crescimento e desenvolvimento inicial de Avena sativa. Para isso, um Latossolo foi submetido a diferentes doses de esterco de ovelha e posteriormente avaliado quanto ao comportamento de fuga e a sobrevivência de Folsomia candida por meio de ensaios ecotoxicológicos padronizados, desempenho inicial da aveia pelo teste de germinação e taxa respiratória basal do solo pela metodologia da respirometria. Houve um aumento na taxa de respiração basal do solo pela aplicação de esterco de ovelha e isso foi consistente com o aumento das doses. A taxa de sobrevivência e o comportamento de fuga dos colêmbolos não foram alterados e não houve alteração no desempenho inicial da aveia, indicando que esse esterco pode ser usado para fertilização orgânica de solos com baixo potencial poluente no solo.

Abnormal results analysis and quality control of biological monitoring by pressure steam sterilizer / 医疗卫生装备

Objective To analyze the causes for the biological monitoring abnormal results of the pressure steam sterilizer to eliminate non-standard operation and hidden risks during biological monitoring.Methods Totally 34 secondary or above medical institutions in Chongqing were selected randomly,and questionnaire survey was carried out over biological monitoring abnormal results and main influencing factors of the pressure steam sterilizer.Results Of the 126 abnormal results,there were 63 positive results (accounting for 50％) and the main influencing factors included expiration,aged seal ring,low-efficiency vacuum pump,nonstandard loading,bioindicator reproduction before sterilization,false positive result,polluted moist incubator and etc;There were 35 cases of results related to fast reader (accounting for 27.78％) and the main factors consisted of failure of reading light,improper input of bioindicator,dusts in the reading hole and etc;There were 18 cases of bioindicator discoloration before culture (accounting for 14.28％) and the main factor was reproduction occurred before the gemma was inactivated;There were l0 cases of nondiscoloring in case of positive control (accounting for 7.94％) and the main factors included non-crushed indicating mediostratum cultured in the incubator,insufficient shaking after crushing mediostratum and etc.Conclusion The main factors for abnormal biological monitoring of the sterilizer involve in equipment,personnel and material,and the quality control has to be executed from the three aspects.

Heavy metal accumulation and biochemical evaluation of earthworms from sawmills in Abeokuta, South-Western Nigeria

Over the years, sawmilling industries have shown a high growth in the rain forest areas of Nigeria, releasing several wastes into the environment. This study aims at using earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae, Libyodrilus violaceous and Hyperiodrilus africanus) of sawmill origin as bio-indicators of metal pollution in sawmills. Four major sawmills located in Abeokuta (7°9'11"44" N - 3°19'35" E), namely Lafenwa, Sapon, Isale-Ake and Kotopo sawmills were used for this study. The arboretum of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta was used as control site. Earthworms, plant and soil samples were collected each month for three months (March to May, 2013), randomly from different points at each of the locations. Protein analysis was conducted on the earthworms using gel electrophoresis while the activities of Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were done spectrophotometrically. Heavy metal analysis was also conducted on soil, plant and earthworm samples using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Gel electro-phoresis results revealed the presence of nine protein bands in E. eugeniae from Sapon and Kotopo sawmills, as compared to six protein bands of E. eugeniae from the control site. Seven protein bands were observed in L. violaceous from Lafenwa and H. africanus from Isale-Ake sawmills. Levels of SOD, GPx and CAT activities were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in E. eugeniae from Sapon sawmill than those of Kotopo sawmill and the control site. This study also revealed that Pb and Cd concentrations were higher in the earthworms, plants and soil from the sawmills than those of the control site. Sapon sawmill recorded significantly higher (P < 0.05) levels of Cd and Cu in plants as well as Pb and Cd in soil samples than those of the other locations. The concentrations of Cu, Co and Ni were higher in the soil of the control site than in the sawmill soils. Stronger relationship exists in the metal concentrations between the earthworms and soils (R= 0.602) than between the plants and soil (R= 0.405). Sawmilling therefore posses potential risks on sawmill soil and soil fauna, especially earthworm species.

A través de los años, la industria de aserraderos ha mostrado un alto crecimiento en las áreas de bosque tropical de Nigeria, lanzando varios residuos al ambiente. Este estudio tiene como objetivo utilizar lombrices (Eudrilus eugeniae, Libyodrilus violaceous y Hyperiodrilus africanus) de origen aserradero como bioindicadores de contaminación por metales en los aserraderos. Se utilizaron cuatro grandes aserraderos ubicados en Abeokuta (7°9'11"44" N - 3°19'35" E), a saber: Lafenwa, Sapon, Isale-Ake y Kotopo, para este estudio. El arboreto de la Universidad Federal de Agricultura, Abeo-kuta fue utilizado como sitio de control. Las lombrices de tierra, plantas y muestras de suelo se recogieron cada mes durante tres meses (marzo a mayo 2013), al azar en diferentes puntos en cada una de las localidades. El análisis de proteínas se llevó a cabo en las lombrices de tierra utilizando electroforesis en gel, mientras que las actividades de la superóxido dismutasa (SOD), catalasa (CAT) y glutatión peroxidasa (GPx) se realizaron espectrofotométricamente. Análisis de metales pesados también se llevaron a cabo en muestras de suelo, plantas y lombrices de tierra utilizando espectrofotómetro de absorción atómica. Resultados de la electroforesis del gel reveló la presencia de nueve bandas de proteínas de E. eugeniae en los aserraderos de Sapon y Kotopo, en comparación con seis bandas de proteínas de E. eugeniae de el sitio control. Se observaron siete bandas de proteínas de L. violaceous de Lafenwa y H. africanus en los aserraderos Isale-Ake. Los niveles de SOD, GPx y actividades CAT fueron significativamente mayores (P <0.05) en E. eugeniae del aserradero Sapon que las del aserradero Kotopo y el sitio control. El estudio también reveló que las concentraciones de Pb y Cd fueron mayores en las lombrices de tierra, plantas y el suelo de los aserraderos que los del sitio control. El aserradero Sapon mostró niveles significativamente mayores (P <0.05) de Cd y Cu en las plantas, así como Pb y Cd en muestras de suelo que las de los otros lugares. Las concentraciones de Cu, Co y Ni fueron mayores en el suelo del sitio de control que en los suelos de los aserraderos. Existe relación más fuerte en las concentraciones de metales entre las lombrices de tierra y los suelos (R = 0.602) que entre las plantas y el suelo (R = 0.405). Por lo tanto, la actividad en los aserraderos posee riesgos potenciales en el suelo y su fauna, especialmente las especies de lombrices.

Biomonitoring the genotoxic potential of the air on Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea under climatic conditions in the Sinos River basin, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Biomonitoramento do potencial genotóxico do ar em Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea sob condições climáticas na bacia do Rio dos Sinos, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Abstract The present study evaluated the genotoxic effects of the atmospheric air on Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea in urban areas with different intensities of vehicular traffic and in riparian forest fragments in the Sinos River Basin (Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil), considering the influence of climatic conditions prevailing in these environments. Bimonthly, from May 2012 to March 2013, cuttings with flower buds were exposed for 8 h in urban and riparian forest environments in the municipalities of Caraá, Taquara and Campo Bom in the upper, middle and lower sections, respectively, of the Sinos River Basin. Simultaneously, negative controls were made and climatic data were recorded. Micronuclei (MCN) frequencies were determined in young tetrads of pollen mother cells and expressed as MCN/100 tetrads. Significantly higher MCN frequencies were observed in buds exposed in urban and riparian forest environments in Taquara (up to 7.23 and 4.80, respectively) and Campo Bom (up to 4.90 and 4.23, respectively) than in buds exposed in Caraá (up to 2.90 and 2.50, respectively), in the majority of samplings, and in relation to the negative control (up to 1.93) in all months. Over the course of the period monitored, there were significant variations in MCN frequencies at all sampling points, with the exception of the urban environment in Caraá. For the urban environments, relation between the MCN frequency, vehicular traffic and mean temperature was observed. For the riparian forest fragments, there was no association between MCN frequency and climatic factors. Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea can be considered a useful tool to point out areas with increased atmospheric pollution, since the exposure of plants under severe climatic conditions is avoided to minimize their negative influence on the formation of micronuclei.

Resumo O presente estudo avaliou os efeitos genotóxicos do ar atmosférico sobre Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea em áreas urbanas com diferentes intensidades de tráfego veicular e em fragmentos de mata ciliar na Bacia do Rio dos Sinos (Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil), considerando a influência de condições climáticas prevalecentes nesses ambientes. Bimensalmente, de maio de 2012 a março de 2013, ramos com botões florais foram expostos por 8 h em ambientes urbanos e de mata ciliar nos municípios de Caraá, Taquara e Campo Bom nos trechos superior, médio e inferior, respectivamente, da Bacia do Rio dos Sinos. Simultaneamente, foram realizados controles negativos e levantados dados climáticos. Frequências de micronúcleos (MCN) foram determinadas em tétrades jovens de células-mãe de grãos de pólen e expressas como MCN/100 tétrades. Frequências de MCN significativamente superiores foram observadas em botões expostos nos ambientes urbanos e de matas ciliares em Taquara (até 7,23 e 4,80, respectivamente) e Campo Bom (até 4,90 e 4,23, respectivamente) do que em botões expostos em Caraá (até 2,90 e 2,50, respectivamente), na maioria das amostragens, e em relação ao controle negativo (até 1,93) em todos os meses. Ao longo do período monitorado, ocorreram variações significativas nas frequências de MCN em todos os pontos amostrais, com exceção do ambiente urbano de Caraá. Para os ambientes urbanos, foi observada relação entre a frequência de MCN, tráfego veicular e temperatura média. Para os fragmentos de mata ciliar, não houve associação entre a frequência de MCN e fatores climáticos. Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea pode ser considerada uma ferramenta útil para apontar áreas com poluição atmosférica aumentada, desde que, sob condições climáticas severas, a exposição das plantas seja evitada, para minimizar o efeito destas sobre a formação de micronúcleos.

Biomonitoring the genotoxic potential of the air on Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea under climatic conditions in the Sinos River basin, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Abstract The present study evaluated the genotoxic effects of the atmospheric air on Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea in urban areas with different intensities of vehicular traffic and in riparian forest fragments in the Sinos River Basin (Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil), considering the influence of climatic conditions prevailing in these environments. Bimonthly, from May 2012 to March 2013, cuttings with flower buds were exposed for 8 h in urban and riparian forest environments in the municipalities of Caraá, Taquara and Campo Bom in the upper, middle and lower sections, respectively, of the Sinos River Basin. Simultaneously, negative controls were made and climatic data were recorded. Micronuclei (MCN) frequencies were determined in young tetrads of pollen mother cells and expressed as MCN/100 tetrads. Significantly higher MCN frequencies were observed in buds exposed in urban and riparian forest environments in Taquara (up to 7.23 and 4.80, respectively) and Campo Bom (up to 4.90 and 4.23, respectively) than in buds exposed in Caraá (up to 2.90 and 2.50, respectively), in the majority of samplings, and in relation to the negative control (up to 1.93) in all months. Over the course of the period monitored, there were significant variations in MCN frequencies at all sampling points, with the exception of the urban environment in Caraá. For the urban environments, relation between the MCN frequency, vehicular traffic and mean temperature was observed. For the riparian forest fragments, there was no association between MCN frequency and climatic factors. Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea can be considered a useful tool to point out areas with increased atmospheric pollution, since the exposure of plants under severe climatic conditions is avoided to minimize their negative influence on the formation of micronuclei.

Resumo O presente estudo avaliou os efeitos genotóxicos do ar atmosférico sobre Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea em áreas urbanas com diferentes intensidades de tráfego veicular e em fragmentos de mata ciliar na Bacia do Rio dos Sinos (Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil), considerando a influência de condições climáticas prevalecentes nesses ambientes. Bimensalmente, de maio de 2012 a março de 2013, ramos com botões florais foram expostos por 8 h em ambientes urbanos e de mata ciliar nos municípios de Caraá, Taquara e Campo Bom nos trechos superior, médio e inferior, respectivamente, da Bacia do Rio dos Sinos. Simultaneamente, foram realizados controles negativos e levantados dados climáticos. Frequências de micronúcleos (MCN) foram determinadas em tétrades jovens de células-mãe de grãos de pólen e expressas como MCN/100 tétrades. Frequências de MCN significativamente superiores foram observadas em botões expostos nos ambientes urbanos e de matas ciliares em Taquara (até 7,23 e 4,80, respectivamente) e Campo Bom (até 4,90 e 4,23, respectivamente) do que em botões expostos em Caraá (até 2,90 e 2,50, respectivamente), na maioria das amostragens, e em relação ao controle negativo (até 1,93) em todos os meses. Ao longo do período monitorado, ocorreram variações significativas nas frequências de MCN em todos os pontos amostrais, com exceção do ambiente urbano de Caraá. Para os ambientes urbanos, foi observada relação entre a frequência de MCN, tráfego veicular e temperatura média. Para os fragmentos de mata ciliar, não houve associação entre a frequência de MCN e fatores climáticos. Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea pode ser considerada uma ferramenta útil para apontar áreas com poluição atmosférica aumentada, desde que, sob condições climáticas severas, a exposição das plantas seja evitada, para minimizar o efeito destas sobre a formação de micronúcleos.

Copper Induced Lysosomal Membrane Destabilisation in Haemolymph Cells of Mediterranean Green Crab (Carcinus aestuarii, Nardo, 1847) from the Narta Lagoon (Albania)

ABSTRACTDestabilisation of blood cell lysosomes in Mediterranean green crabCarcinus aestuarii was investigated using Neutral Red Retention Assay (NRRA). Crabs collected in Narta Lagoon, Vlora (Albania) during May 2014 were exposed in the laboratory to sub-lethal, environmentally realistic concentrations of copper. Neutral Red Retention Time (NRRT) and glucose concentration in haemolymph of animals were measured. The mean NRRT showed a significant reduction for the animals of the treatment group compared to the control one (from 118.6 ± 28.4 to 36.4 ± 10.48 min, p<0.05), indicating damage of lysosomal membrane. Haemolymph glucose concentration was significantly higher in the treatment group (from 37.8 ± 2.7 to 137.8.4 ± 16.2 mg/dL, p<0.05) than in control group, demonstrating the presence of stress on the animals. These results showed thatC. aestuarii could be used as a successful and reliable bioindicator for evaluating the exposure to contaminants in laboratory conditions. NRRA provides a successful tool for rapid assessment of heavy metal pollution effects on marine biota.

Macrofauna do solo em uma cronosequência de capoeiras, florestas e pastos no Centro de Endemismo Belém, Amazônia Oriental / Soil macrofauna in a chronosequence of fallows, old-growth forests and pastures in the Belém Endemism Center, Eastern Amazon

The Belém Endemism Center (CEB; the biogeographic region located between the Tocantins and Pindaré rivers) is the most deforested area of the Amazon. To study the soil biota of the remaining old-growth and second-growth forests is essential to promote more sustainable farming practices, and provide orientation for degraded land restoration. The aim of this study was to identify the main determinants of the composition and diversity of major taxa of soil macrofauna (current soil use, geographic centers, soil use history, fire frequency) in a chronosequence of fallows and forests in the CEB. Macrofauna was sampled in eight sites of young secondary forests (4-7 y), six sites of medium secondary forests (11-15 y), seven sites of "old" secondary forests (20-40 y), eight sites of old-growth forest remnants and three sites of pastures. Its composition and diversity were analysed through Principal Component and Between-class Analyses. A total of 9.225 individuals from 29 major taxa (orders or families) were collected in the 32 plots. Soil macrofauna composition was very sensitive to soil use history and identified different communities among geographic centers. The intensity of soil use decreased the abundance and richness of predators, indicating long-lasting impacts of soil degradation on macrofauna composition and diversity, and therefore on soil ecological functions.

O Centro de Endemismo Belém (CEB) -região biogeográfica localizada entre os rios Tocantins e Pindaré- é a área mais desmatada da Amazônia. Estudar a biota do solo dos remanescentes florestais e de áreas em regeneração (capoeiras) do CEB é fundamental para promover práticas agrícolas mais sustentáveis e orientar ações de restauração de áreas degradadas. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse estudo foi identificar os principais determinantes da composição e da diversidade dos grandes táxons de macrofauna do solo (uso atual do solo, núcleos geográficos, histórico de uso, freqüência de fogo) em uma cronoseqüência de capoeiras e florestas no CEB. A macrofauna foi amostrada em oito áreas de capoeiras baixas (4-7 anos), seis áreas de capoeiras médias (11-15 anos), sete áreas de capoeiras altas (20-40 anos), oito áreas de remanescentes de florestas e três áreas de pastagem. Sua composição e diversidade foi estudada através de Análises de Componentes Principais e Entre-classes. Um total de 9.225 indivíduos pertencentes a 29 grandes taxóns (ordens ou famílias) foram coletados nas 32 parcelas amostradas. A composição da macrofauna se mostrou sensível ao efeito do histórico de uso do solo e identificou comunidades significativamente distintas entre as micro-regiões, havendo nessa escala efeito da cronosequência de capoeiras e florestas. A intensidade do uso do solo levou a redução da abundância e da riqueza de predadores, indicando alterações significativas no funcionamento do solo. Esses resultados mostram um efeito duradouro da degradação sobre a macrofauna do solo e conseqüentemente sobre suas funções ecológicas.

Low malathion concentrations influence metabolism in Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) in acute and chronic toxicity tests

Low malathion concentrations influence metabolism in Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) in acute and chronic toxicity tests. Organophosphate compounds are used in agro-systems, and in programs to control pathogen vectors. Because they are continuously applied, organophosphates often reach water sources and may have an impact on aquatic life. The effects of acute and chronic exposure to the organophosphate insecticide malathion on the midge Chironomus sancticaroli are evaluated. To that end, three biochemical biomarkers, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), alpha (EST-α) and beta (EST-β) esterase were used. Acute bioassays with five concentrations of malathion, and chronic bioassays with two concentrations of malathion were carried out. In the acute exposure test, AChE, EST-α and EST-β activities declined by 66, 40 and 37%, respectively, at 0.251 µg L-1 and more than 80% at 1.37, 1.96 and 2.51 µg L-1. In chronic exposure tests, AChE and EST-α activities declined by 28 and 15% at 0.251 µg L-1. Results of the present study show that low concentrations of malathion can influence larval metabolism, indicating high toxicity for Chironomus sancticaroli and environmental risk associated with the use of organophosphates.

On the ecology of the cursorial spider Odo bruchi (Araneae: Zoridae) in a grassland natural reserve from central Argentina / Ecología de la araña cursorial Odo bruchi (Araneae: Zoridae) en una reserva de pastizal natural del centro de Argentina

The “Ernesto Tornquist” Provincial Park (ETPP) is located inside the Ventania system (Argentina) and was created to protect one of the last relicts of pampean grasslands. Even though many studies have looked at the vertebrate faunal diversity, biology, and conservation in this Park, few studies have been dedicated to arthropods. Among these, spiders have been used as ecological indicators to evaluate nature conservation status, nevertheless, basic information on their distribution and ecology is necessary for their use as indicator taxa in this region. Thus the goal of this study was to present the phenology and demography of the spider Odo bruchi, a cursorial spider present in the ETPP. For this, spiders were sampled bimonthly using pitfall traps between September 2009-2010 (first year), and March 2011-2012 (second year). A total of 10 traps were placed every 10m along a transect of 100m parallel to the longest axis of a grassland slope with native vegetation. Traps were filled with 1 500mL of ethylene glycol, that were examined and refilled every 60 day period. We collected a total of 799 specimens in two years. Juveniles were the most abundant reaching 47.8% of the total, while males corresponded to 27.8% and females 24.4%. We found significant differences in the mean abundance of O. bruchi: the abundance during spring-summer (Nov-Dec-Jan-Feb) was significantly higher than the other periods of the two years period. Moreover, we found an even abundance distribution throughout the year in the entire study. This work represents one of the first contributions to the ecology of this spider family in the area. Also, our results comprise relevant information to encourage future studies on this spider species as a bio-indicator of the conservation status of pampean grasslands.

El Parque Provincial “Ernesto Tornquist” (PPET) se encuentra dentro del sistema de Ventania (Argentina) y fue creado para proteger uno de los últimos relictos de pastizal pampeano. Aunque se han realizado varios estudios sobre la diversidad, ecología y conservación de la fauna en este Parque, la mayoría se enfocaron en vertebrados, y solo unos pocos estudios se dedicaron a los artrópodos. Las arañas son utilizadas como indicadores ecológicos para evaluar el estado de conservación de los ecosistemas. Cuando se utilizan especies individuales es necesario contar con excelente información básica sobre su distribución y ecología para la elección del taxón indicado. Es por esto que el objetivo de este estudio es presentar la fenología y demografía de Odo bruchi Mello-Leitão 1938 (Zoridae), una araña cursorial que se encuentra en el PPET. Las arañas se capturaron bimestralmente utilizando trampas de caída entre Septiembre 2009-2010 (primer año) y Marzo 2011-2012 (segundo año). Las trampas se colocaron cada de 10m en un transecto de 100m paralelo al el eje más largo de la pendiente del pastizal. Cargamos las trampas con 1 500mL de etilenglicol y las examinamos y recargamos cada 60 días. Recolectamos 799 individuos en dos años. Los jóvenes fueron los más abundantes con un 47.8% del total, mientras que los machos correspondieron al 27.8% y las hembras al 24.4%. Encontramos diferencias significativas en la abundancia media de O. bruchi: la abundancia en primavera-verano (nov-dic-ene-feb) fue significativamente mayor que el resto de los períodos en los dos años estudiados. A su vez, encontramos una distribución similar de la abundancia a lo largo del año en todo el estudio. Este trabajo representa una de las primeras contribuciones a la ecología de esta familia de arañas. Además, los resultados obtenidos comprenden información relevante para fomentar estudios futuros sobre esta especie de araña como un posible bio-indicador del estado de conservación de los pastizales pampeanos.